Magnificent.

Reading the book, one searches for some other emergent nation, one imagined by generations of Black revolutionaries, solid in its constitution and aims: safety, dignity and self-determination for Black people.

All of this could have been framed as the story of a mythological family turned into national symbols. But Holley has so much ground to cover and so many plates to juggle that he mostly focuses on how the family survived gunshots, unjust trials, and COINTELPRO spying and conspiracy.

Above all a beautiful tribute to the Black family.

Holley’s riveting, detailed history is essential reading for understanding modern America and the Shakurs’ enduring legacy..

Well written and richly detailed, this book is a strong contribution to the literature of Black militancy..